Living Arts Centre in Mississauga appoints new CEO

The Living Arts Centre (LAC) is undergoing some pretty substantial changes, and a new CEO has been appointed. 

Earlier this year, Mississauga city council passed a motion to end its relationship agreement and assume responsibility for operating and managing the centrally-located arts and culture venue.  

On Oct, 1, the city announced that Paul Damaso, director of culture with the city, has been appointed as the CEO for the LAC, effective immediately.

The appointment is part of the process to transfer all operations and management of the LAC to the city.  

“As of Sept. 30, 2019, the city has assumed governance and operation of the LAC, but there is still work to be done to fully complete the transition to our Community Services team. Paul will be leading and overseeing the day-to-day operation and future planning for the LAC in addition to continuing in his role as Director of the City’s Culture division,” said Janice Baker, city manager and Chief Administrative Officer (CAO). 

“During the transition, it will continue to be business as usual for all LAC employees, customers, rental clients and program participants. The city wishes to acknowledge and thank the efforts of the dedicated, skilled and passionate board members who have managed the LAC for the past 22 years.”

The LAC officially opened its doors on Nov. 14, 1997.

During that time, through a lease and relationship agreement with the city, the LAC (a registered not-for-profit charitable organization), was responsible for managing programming and services within the facility. 

Moving forward, the city will be looking for opportunities across its municipally managed major entertainment and cultural facilities – Paramount Fine Foods Centre, Celebration Square, Meadowvale Theatre, the LAC – to better integrate programming, drive tourism and establish Mississauga as a creative music city.